His path to becoming a better pastor and leader took a pivotal turn when he joined Hispanic Access Foundation’s Hispanic Leadership Network (HLN) program. He was connected to HLN through trusted peers, including Pastor Jackie Carpio, with whom he had pursued a doctorate, and other leaders within the Assemblies of God. Initially hesitant due to time constraints, José was persuaded by Jackie’s assurance of the program’s value and manageability. What followed was a transformative experience that reshaped his perspective on leadership, ministry, and community engagement.
“There is a desire in my heart to keep learning,” José shares, reflecting on his motivation for joining the program. The HLN program introduced him to topics rarely discussed in pastoral circles like race in the church, personality tests, self-care, and others. These themes, he believes, are essential for pastors to understand, particularly as they navigate the complex challenges of modern ministry. For José, who has always valued learning, this was an opportunity to grow not only as a leader but as a servant of his community.
One of the most impactful lessons from the program came through a workshop led by Christine Tamara, which focused on personality types and empathy. “The workshop has helped me analyze and work better with people,” he explains. The insights he gained allowed him to better connect with his congregation and leadership team, fostering a culture of understanding and collaboration. This newfound perspective has also influenced how he views the demands of pastoral work. “Pastors are not superhuman,” he says. “We need to prioritize rest and family.” The program’s emphasis on vulnerability and self-care has been particularly resonant, inspiring him to model these values for his peers and congregation.
"Completing the Hispanic Leadership Network program transformed my leadership and my ministry. It renewed my focus on community engagement, inspiring me to organize initiatives that extend far beyond the walls of the church," he shares. His plans for 2025 include outdoor retreats for church leadership, not for preaching, but for recharging and fostering camaraderie. His church has also partnered with health organizations to bring cancer education and financial literacy workshops to the congregation. Additionally, they’re working with immigration lawyers to provide resources for the immigrant community, demonstrating a commitment to holistic support.
One of the most ambitious projects underway is the creation of seminars and nature hikes designed to raise environmental awareness and encourage conservation. These efforts, inspired by the eco-theological principles he learned through Por la Creación Faith-Based Alliance, aim to bridge the gap between faith and environmental stewardship. “We need to do things that are pro-community and pro-conservation,” he emphasizes.
Looking back, Pastor José is most proud of the personal growth he has experienced. “I can’t serve my community if I don’t change my ways,” he acknowledges. His journey has deepened his understanding of his first ministry—his family. By prioritizing his role as a husband and father, he’s been able to serve his church with greater authenticity and balance.
Grateful for the opportunity to participate in HLN, José sees it as a “gem” for Latino pastors. He’s now advocating for others to join the program, particularly those in high-ranking positions who might benefit from its lessons on humility and community-centered leadership. “This program is essential for our congregations,” he says, adding that its accessibility in Spanish makes it even more invaluable.
As he looks to the future, Pastor José remains committed to his mission of empowering others. Whether it’s mentoring young leaders, building programs for aspiring entrepreneurs, or continuing to learn and grow himself, he’s determined to walk in faith and lead with love. He’s taking the new tools and information he learned from the Hispanic Leadership Network on his journey to inspire others to follow suit.